Chris Quintos Cathcart’s journey from actor to executive producer is a testament to her unwavering commitment to amplify underrepresented voices in the film industry. From her early days as an actor and writer, crafting roles for herself due to the scarcity of interesting parts for her ‘type,’ to co-founding Unapologetic Projects, Cathcart has relentlessly pursued her vision to tell authentic, diverse stories. Her transition from writer to actor to executive producer reflects a profound dedication to reshaping the cinematic landscape and ensuring all audiences see themselves represented on screen.
In January 2023, Chris co-founded Unapologetic Projects alongside her business partner, Tyler Boehm. Before this, Chris’s life was steeped in the performing arts. She began her career as an actor, thriving in the theater scene before transitioning to writing roles for herself, driven by the scarcity of interesting parts for her ‘type’.
This foray into writing eventually led her to Los Angeles. However, it was after the birth of her second child that Chris decided she needed a significant change. “It was just a powerless feeling,” she recalls.
Initially, Chris sought roles for herself by connecting with Filipino American filmmakers. Her networking eventually led her to Tyler, who helped her find her first significant project with filmmaker Mallory Ortega. Chris provided the finishing funds for Ortega’s film, marking the beginning of their professional relationship.
Since its inception, Unapologetic Projects has produced two feature films and established a TV department. Their mandate is clear: to seek out underrepresented creators who tell authentic stories. “I’m still looking for that Filipino American role,” Chris admits. “But while I look, I’m making other stuff from different communities.” Their film “DÍDI,” directed by Sean Wang, epitomizes their mission. The film won the U.S. Dramatic Audience Award at the Sundance Film Festival, marking a significant milestone for the company.
The journey to finding “DÍDI” was serendipitous. An agent introduced the project to them, and Tyler, with his extensive experience, recognized its potential. “He mentioned that he hadn’t seen boyhood treated this way before,” Chris says. “As an Asian American, I hadn’t seen this kind of representation either. It spoke to both of us.” They decided to produce the film and eventually sold it to Focus Features after its Sundance success.
Unapologetic Projects’ recent film, “All That We Love,” premiered at the Tribeca Film Festival. Directed by Yen Tan and starring Margaret Cho and Jesse Tyler Ferguson, the film portrays a realistic Asian American family with relatable, everyday struggles. “I love that film because it shows what feels like a real Asian American family,” Chris explains. “They’re not perfect; they have their regular problems.”
Chris’s passion for storytelling extends beyond feature films. She is currently working on a documentary about Benny “The Jet” Urquidez, a legendary kickboxer from East LA. The documentary, produced by Fisher Stevens and Keanu Reeves and directed by Jennifer Tiexiera, will explore Benny’s life and career, highlighting his influence in Hollywood fight choreography. “Keanu Reeves idolizes this man,” Chris says. “Benny is a definitive figure in on-screen fighting.”
Building Unapologetic Projects has been an intense and rewarding journey for Chris. Despite not coming up as an executive within the traditional system, she finds her unique background as an actor and mother beneficial. “I’m really looking for positive disruption,” she says. “We pay writers to pitch TV shows with us, which is something other people don’t do. I think there’s a lot of space for change.”
Chris’ parents hail from Quezon City and immigrated to the United States in 1980, starting a new life in Oceanside, San Diego. She has only visited the Philippines once, attending her grandfather’s funeral in 1987.
Despite the infrequent visits, there is a strong desire to return to the Philippines. A significant trip was planned for New Year’s 2021, but those plans were disrupted by COVID. However, the dream of going back remains, with hopes of another trip in the future. “I would love if a project took me back,” she says. “That would be my dream, then I’d meet Filipinos in film and that would be amazing.” The idea of connecting with Filipino filmmakers and exploring the vibrant film scene in the Philippines is a cherished aspiration.
Chris’s dedication to diversity is evident in her commitment to telling underrepresented stories. One such project is the true crime story of Teresita Basa, a Filipino nurse murdered in Chicago in the 1970s. The case took a paranormal turn when Basa’s co-worker, Remy, began exhibiting strange behaviors and eventually provided clues to the police that led to the killer’s capture. This story, developed by Chris and directed by Maritte “Marty” Lee Go, promises to be a fascinating addition to Unapologetic Projects’ portfolio.
Despite her busy schedule, Chris harbors a personal dream project. “I just want to find a Filipino 27 Dresses,” she says, referring to the romantic comedy film. She has been spitballing about it with her partner Tyler and it has evolved into 27 first cousins, blending her love for rom-coms with her cultural heritage. “It’s been taking all my energy to launch this company, but one day I’ll get back to writing, and 27 First Cousins will be my first project.”
Reflecting on her journey, Chris acknowledges the challenges and rewards of her role. “The worst part of my job is that everything is my fault,” she admits. “But the best part is getting to read all day. I grew up as a bookworm, and now I get to do it with a team of people.” Her job, she says, is like being in a book club, where she gets to discuss and analyze material with her team.
For those aspiring to follow in her footsteps, Chris offers advice: “There are two kinds of producers—the ones with money and the ones who do all the work. If you’re detail-oriented and passionate about managing a project from start to finish, you can become a producer at any level.” She encourages young creatives to recognize the multitude of jobs in storytelling beyond acting and directing.
Through Unapologetic Projects, she continues to champion diverse voices and create impactful films that resonate with underrepresented communities.
